Judaculla Rock

Hiking

Swing into summer.

If you've ever wanted to do your best Tarzan impression and swing on a rope followed by a deep dive into a cool, clear river, we have the adventure for you. Though the rope swing we’re describing is a little challenging to get to, most agree it’s well worth your while to find. There are two routes: either begin with a tubing adventure on the Oconaluftee, so you eventually float down and find the area the locals refer to as Piney Grove Beach or take Big Cove Road and take a local with you. It isn’t easy to find if you take the road, but very easy if you access it via tube. You’ll discover the rope swing is part of a big swimming hole near the river, so there’s plenty of fun to go around. The Cherokee Welcome Center can get you started in the right direction.

Cherokee is situated just outside the gateway to the legendary Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most beautiful, biodiverse parks in the Southeast. World-class hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding are available in this wooded paradise at Cherokee’s doorstep.

Visit Mingus Mill near the Mountain Farm Museum, and explore one of the most historic sites in the region, surrounded by some of Cherokee country’s finest hiking trails and numerous historic landmarks. Mingus Mill is the ideal place for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural world of the Cherokee people.

Take a walking tour along the beautiful Oconaluftee River Trail. From the start of the trailhead, wander along the banks of our pristine river, enjoying natural quiet spots and informative trail markers, before arriving at the Mountain Farm Museum, a collection of some of the oldest cabins and log buildings in all of Cherokee.

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